Have you seen the term Tunisian crochet and wondered what it actually is? Tunisian crochet, also called Afghan crochet, sits somewhere between crochet and knitting. You use a hook, but you keep a whole row of loops on it, the way a knitter keeps stitches on a needle. Below you'll find what it is, what you need, and how to make your first Tunisian stitches.
What is Tunisian crochet?
In Tunisian crochet you use a long hook that looks like a knitting needle with a hook at the end. You always work with the same side facing you. Each row has two halves: on the forward pass you pick up loops and keep them on the hook (a bit like knitting), and on the return pass you work them off again (more like regular crochet). The result is a dense, firm fabric with a woven look.
It works well for blankets, cushions, sweaters and accessories like bags and scarves.
What you need
- A Tunisian crochet hook: a long hook with a stopper at the end, or a hook with a cable for wider projects such as blankets.
- A smooth yarn, so you can see your stitches clearly. Light colors are easiest to read.
- Scissors and a tapestry needle for weaving in the ends.
Tunisian fabric is denser than regular crochet, so most people use a hook 1 to 2 sizes larger than the yarn label suggests. For a worsted (medium) weight yarn, that often means 5.5-6 mm (US I-9 to J-10).
Regular crochet vs Tunisian crochet
| Regular crochet | Tunisian crochet | |
|---|---|---|
| Hook | Short hook | Long hook, or hook with a cable |
| Loops on the hook | Usually one | A whole row on the forward pass |
| Turning the work | Turn at the end of each row (when working rows) | Never turn: the right side always faces you |
| Fabric | Depends on the stitch, from dense to lacy | Dense, woven or knit-like |
| Hook size | As on the yarn label | Usually 1-2 sizes larger |
The basic techniques for beginners
Foundation row, forward pass
Start with a chain as long as the number of stitches you want. The loop on your hook counts as the first stitch. Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook (the back bump is neatest), yarn over and pull up a loop. Leave it on the hook. Repeat in every chain to the end. You now have as many loops on the hook as you have chains.
Return pass
This is the part that feels like regular crochet. Yarn over and pull through one loop. Then yarn over and pull through two loops, and keep repeating that until only one loop is left on the hook. That loop becomes the first stitch of the next row. You work this same return pass after every forward pass.
Tunisian simple stitch (Tss)
The Tunisian simple stitch is the first real stitch you'll learn. On the forward pass, skip the first vertical bar (the loop on your hook already counts as the first stitch). Insert the hook from right to left under the next front vertical bar, yarn over, pull up a loop and leave it on the hook. Repeat across. For the last stitch, insert the hook under both loops of the edge stitch so the side stays firm. Then work the return pass. After a few rows you'll see a dense fabric that looks a little like weaving.
Ideas for your first Tunisian crochet project
A scarf or a set of potholders makes a good first project: straight, flat pieces where you only need the Tunisian simple stitch. Once you're comfortable, try the Tunisian knit stitch, which looks surprisingly like knitted stockinette. If you like that look, our knitting vs crochet comparison is an interesting read.
Tips for getting started
- Practice with a light-colored yarn. It's much easier to see the vertical bars and fix mistakes.
- Keep your tension relaxed. If you pull the yarn too tight, the fabric gets stiff and it's hard to insert the hook.
- Count the loops on your hook at the end of each forward pass. Missing the last edge stitch is the most common reason a piece gets narrower.
- Tunisian simple stitch tends to curl. A larger hook, a border of regular single crochet, or blocking the finished piece all help.
Frequently asked questions about Tunisian crochet
Is Tunisian crochet harder than regular crochet?
Not really, but it feels different. If you already know how to chain and work basic stitches, the movements will look familiar. Holding many loops on the hook takes a little getting used to.
Can I do Tunisian crochet with a regular crochet hook?
For a narrow piece, yes, as long as all the loops fit on the hook. For anything wider, like a scarf or blanket, you need a long Tunisian hook or one with a cable.
Why does my Tunisian crochet curl?
The Tunisian simple stitch naturally curls toward you. Using a hook 1 to 2 sizes larger, adding a border, or blocking the work reduces it.
Is Tunisian crochet the same as Afghan crochet?
Yes, they're two names for the same technique. Older patterns often call it Afghan crochet or the afghan stitch.
Where to go from here
New to crochet altogether? Start with crochet for beginners and the basic crochet stitches, then pick up a Tunisian hook when you're ready for something new.
